Laruns, Eaux-Chaudes, Goust, Gabas, Artouste

Presentation

From the village of Laruns to the Spanish border

Laruns

A municipality that stands out for its size and natural beauty

Covering 24,894 hectares, Laruns is the third-largest municipality in mainland France. It stretches to the Spanish border and is home to remarkable, unspoilt natural sites in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, such as the Cirque d’Anéou and the Brousset valley, as well as the majestic Pic du Midi d’Ossau.
Perfect spots for lovers of the mountains and hiking.

A rich architectural heritage steeped in history

The town comprises several neighbourhoods, characterised by their old houses adorned with symbolic motifs, inspired by religion (such as the scallop shell) or linked to trades (set squares, compasses).

Also worth a visit: Espalungue Castle (private property), where, according to legend, the musketeer Aramits is said to have died.

Living traditions that are still very much alive

Every 15 August, the locals celebrate Our Lady in a festive atmosphere where traditional costumes, songs and dances bring the traditions of Béarn to life.
On the first weekend in October, the famous Ossau cheese takes centre stage at the traditional Cheese Fair.

Eaux-Chaudes

A historic spa resort

Known since the Middle Ages, the Eaux-Chaudes spa resort has welcomed many distinguished visitors, both French and Spanish, who came to enjoy the benefits of its ‘Aigas Caudas’ (Hot Waters).

In the 19th century, treatments were provided for fertility issues, rheumatism in the elderly and respiratory conditions in children.
Today, the spa centre offers treatments for rheumatology, fibromyalgia, ENT conditions, respiratory tract disorders and childhood asthma.

Spa treatments

A spectacular natural setting

The Eaux-Chaudes spa resort is situated in a peaceful setting, nestled in the heart of a gorge surrounded by the surrounding mountains.

Goust

Perched on a mountainside, Goust has managed to preserve an authentic, almost timeless atmosphere, making it one of the most picturesque spots today.
Its small stone houses lend a special charm to this perfectly preserved village. The panoramic views all around are stunning, offering the ideal setting to recharge your batteries.

Gabas

A cheese-making tradition: ‘queso de Gabas’

Gabas is renowned for its cheese-curing rooms, which bear witness to the Ossau Valley’s cheese-making tradition.
This expertise is celebrated every first weekend in October in Laruns at the Cheese Fair.

A stopover for pilgrims on the Way of St James

Gabas was once a stopover on the Way of St James.
A listed chapel dating from the 12th century still stands today.

A starting point for hikes

On the outskirts of the village, a small road, open from May to November, provides access to the Bious site and the Ayous lakes, as well as the foot of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau.
Gabas is also crossed by the GR10.

Artouste

A unique resort in the heart of the Pyrenees, facing the Pic du Midi d'Ossau

Nestled in the Ossau Valley, close to the Spanish border and just 25 minutes from Laruns, the resort of Artouste offers an exceptional natural setting, dominated by the majestic Pic du Midi d'Ossau.
Wild and unspoilt, it appeals to mountain lovers seeking authenticity. It is an ideal place to relax, whether as a couple, with family or with friends.

In summer, a wealth of experiences and activities

The Artouste train, an unmissable journey

A true symbol of the resort, the little Artouste train is the highest narrow-gauge railway in Europe. Accessible after a cable car ride, it winds its way up the mountainside for several kilometres, offering spectacular views over the Soussouéou valley.
On arrival, the site of Lake Artouste opens up to visitors. It is an ideal spot for a stroll, a picnic or simply to enjoy the peace and beauty of the scenery.

Discover the Artouste train

Outdoor activities in the heart of the mountains

In summer, the resort offers a variety of activities to help you make the most of the mountains:

Mountain biking and downhill trails
Mountain Kart
Zip lines
Water sports (on Lake Fabrèges)
Walks and hikes
Observing Pyrenean flora and fauna
Fishing in a high-altitude lake
Picnic areas with panoramic views
An ideal setting to recharge your batteries

In winter, a ski area on a human scale

Artouste offers a friendly and accessible ski area, spread over around 150 hectares with slopes for all levels, from beginners to experienced skiers.

One of Artouste’s great assets is its 100% natural snow. Surrounded by spectacular scenery, the ski area offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenean peaks, notably the Pic du Midi d’Ossau and the Soussouéou Valley.